MONROVIA – For nearly eight months, Liberia and the larger international community witnessed chronic bitterness, disharmony and chaos amongst members of the House of Representatives over who was the rightful Speaker of that august body. Even despite an initial Supreme ruling, the factions in the House – the so-called majority and minority blocs – dug in deep trenches to fight on. But then a second ruling, which was relatively clearer, providing a pathway for remedy that was only later vitalized by the voluntary resignation of the man who was in the center of the impasse – former Speaker Fonati Koffa, coupled with the subsequent election of chief protagonist in the feud, Richard Koon as the Speaker. Now the formerly estranged pro-Koffa group says it has fully returned to business in the House, a somewhat momentous step also fostered by follow-up a meeting they had with President Joseph Boakai. THE ANALYST reports.
Shortly after a high-level meeting with President Joseph Boakai, CMC Political Leader, Representative Musa Hassan Bility pledged his commitment to working with Speaker Richard Koon and the broader leadership of the House of Representatives.
Bility stated that his cooperation will be guided by the best interests of the Liberian people, adding that he will continue to provide constructive criticism where necessary to ensure transparency and accountability.
“I am ready to work with Speaker Koon and the leadership of the House,” Bility said. “But where there is a need to speak truth to power; I will not hesitate. Our loyalty must be to the Liberian people.”
Also speaking at the event, Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah formerly of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) acknowledged the recent tensions and divisions at Capitol Hill. He expressed optimism that the legislature can now move forward in unity to support the government’s development agenda.
“We recognize the impasse that had existed, but today marks a new beginning,” Fallah stated. “The House of Representatives stands ready to work with President Boakai and his administration to bring peace and development to Liberia.”
The lawmakers made remarks during a strategic meeting between Members of the House of Representatives and President Boakai. The meeting, led by Vice President Jeremiah Koung and Speaker Richard Koon, aimed to build cohesion and collaboration within the legislature, ensuring a stable and effective governance structure moving forward.
The Executive Mansion also reported on the meeting, describing it a significant move intended to bolster coordination between the Executive and Legislative branches of government
The meeting, which took place on Tuesday, was attended by House Speaker Richard Koon and members of the House of Representatives at the Executive Mansion.
Described as peaceful and inclusive, the meeting brought together over 60 members of the House of Representatives, signaling a renewed spirit of unity and cooperation among Liberia’s elected leaders. Vice President Hon. Jeremiah Kpaan Koung was also in attendance.
President Boakai used the occasion to commend the lawmakers for their overwhelming presence, emphasizing that their united attendance sends a strong message of reconciliation and commitment to national service.
“Your presence here today, in such numbers, is a clear indication that you are ready to work in the interest of the Liberian people as a reconciled legislative body,” the President Boakai asserts.
The lawmakers assured the President of their support and pledged to advance his agenda for inclusive development across the country.
This landmark engagement marks a new chapter of collaboration between the Executive and Legislative branches, as they work together to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development in Liberia.
